Big Louis Costillo, last of the old-style gang leaders is slain, and his former
bodyguard Tony Camonte is taken into custody. Since Costillo's body has
never been found, the police have to release him, though they strongly
suspect Johnny Loro paid Tony to remove Big Louis. Tony begins taking
over the rackets in town with violent enforcement, and he becomes a threat
to Johnny and the other bosses unless they work for Tony. Meanwhile,
Tony's sister wants to be more independent, but finds it difficult to escape
from her brother's overprotective grasp. The dissatisfaction of the other
bosses and the relentless pursuit of the police push Tony towards a major
confrontation.